""Of His own will he brought us forth by the word of truth,
that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures."
1. "Of His own will" God does the choosing. He is the One who (in this context) gives the gifts 'every good and perfect gift' (v 17). We don't choose our gifts; but we choose to use our gifts (Romans 12:3-8; 1 Cor 12:1-11; 1 Peter 4:10-11).
2. "He brought us forth...that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures". In the context the issue is giving gifts. He does this so that we will show ourselves to be the 'firstfuits' the initial display of what kind of humans God intended us to be in the firstplace. We are to use the gifts God has given us so that others will see the new life and want it for themselves.
God wants our neighbors to see our good works so that others may give praise to Him (Matt 5:13-16). God wants our neighbors to smell Christ in us so they must make a choice about God (2 Cor 2:14-17). God wants those around us to experience transforming love that takes enormous risks on a clap (Luke 10:25-37).
3. God brought us forth 'by the word of truth'. God speaks, God gives us His Word, God gives us truth: so that we can trust Him. Depend on His Word; trust the promises of God so that you can live: live both now and in eternity.
God the Father, we praise You because You are the great God Who gave His Word; God the Son, we praise You because You are the Word made flesh; God the Spirit, we praise you because You reveal that truth to us so that we may be saved and be the agent of salvation in the lives of those around us. Glorify Your Name Almighty God; glorify Your Name in us.
What gifts has God given you? How do you know? What are you doing to use them?
How do people see your life as a reflection of the new life He has created us to live?
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